WASHINGTON POTATO GROWERS BRING THEIR VOICE TO WASHINGTON, D.C.

Each year, the National Potato Council (NPC) hosts its Washington Summit in Washington, D.C., bringing together potato growers and industry leaders from across the country to engage directly with policymakers on the issues shaping the future of American agriculture. The Summit provides an opportunity for growers to discuss, define, and advocate for the policy priorities that impact their businesses and protect their ability to farm. During our time in Washington, D.C., our group met with 11 of the 12 members of Washington’s congressional delegation to discuss a range of issues important to growers across the state.

A key focus of our conversations was expanding fresh market access into Japan—an opportunity that would open a major new market for Washington potato growers and strengthen export opportunities for the industry. We also provided updates on the progress and long-term importance of the Columbia Basin Project, which remains one of the most critical water infrastructure investments supporting agriculture in Central Washington. Research priorities were another major topic of discussion, particularly the continued need to invest in potato breeding, disease resistance, and production research that supports growers and strengthens the competitiveness of Washington’s potato industry. Labor challenges facing agriculture were also discussed, along with the broader regulatory and economic pressures growers are navigating.

One of the highlights of this year’s Summit was the strong participation from members of the Potato Leadership, Education, and Advancement Foundation (PLEAF) Leadership Program. These young farmers and industry leaders from Central Washington were particularly active in meetings, sharing their firsthand perspectives about farming today and helping lawmakers better understand the challenges and opportunities facing the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Honoring Rep. Dan Newhouse

During the Summit, the potato industry also recognized longtime champion of agriculture Dan Newhouse, who represents Washington’s 4th Congressional District. Congressman Newhouse was awarded the “Golden Potato” in recognition of his consistent support for the potato industry and for agriculture throughout his tenure in Congress.

As a Central Washington farmer himself, Congressman Newhouse has long understood the importance of policies that support growers, strengthen rural economies, and ensure agriculture remains a cornerstone of communities across the region. His leadership on issues important to Washington’s potato industry has made a lasting impact, and the award recognizes his years of partnership with growers and the broader agricultural community.

Congressman Newhouse is expected to retire at the end of his current term, making this recognition a meaningful moment for the industry to thank him for his service and his steadfast support of agriculture.

The Washington State potato industry is deeply connected to federal policy—from trade and research to water infrastructure and labor policy. Opportunities like the NPC Washington Summit allow growers to bring their perspectives directly to lawmakers and ensure the voices of Washington farmers are heard in the decisions that shape the future of agriculture.

As these conversations continue in Washington, D.C., WSPC will remain engaged in advocating for policies that support growers, strengthen the industry, and help ensure Washington remains the nation’s leading producer of potatoes.